The Connecticut Audubon Society, Inc.

Mission:
Connecticut Audubon Society conserves Connecticut’s environment through science-based education and advocacy focused on the state’s bird populations and habitats Results:
Highlights:
A new Grassland Bird Conservation Center will be completed in the Summer 2011 and become the first habitat focused Center. The new facility will welcome more children and adults into the programs and is situated in the heart of a 700 grassland sanctuary which creates a perfect outdoor classroom.
The recommendations from the 2010 'Connecticut State of the Birds' Report, an annual report produced by the Society, were incorporated into Bill 5047 for Open Space acquisition in Connecticut. Overall the report has been heralded as a focused approach to conservation
Thousands of children went through science based environmental programs in local schools and at the Society's Centers. The impact being that the children are taught to the State's science framework and are become young environmentalists. Target demographics:
Connecticut Audubon Society serves all the residents of Connecticut. Direct beneficiaries per year:
Birds and wildlife in threatened habitats across Connecticut.
Teachers in the schools who use the Society science programs and can meet the State's science Frameworks
Children in the schools and in towns who are able to participate in hands-on science programs
Adults attending programs
Geographic areas served:
State of Connecticut Programs:
For a full listing, please visit our website, www.ctaudubon.org. Our programs span from in the school science programs to conservation project biological studies.

Community Reviews

I have been a volunteer at the CT Audubon Society Center in Glastonbury for over 10 years. I believe strongly that children and adults need the opportunity to explore New England's woods, fields, streams and ponds, as well as experience up close our native animals. As a youth, I spent an extensive amount of time in nature, but most children today do not have that opportunity. Through school and family programs, I am able to introduce people to the natural environment, and help them gain an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

I read the Program Evaluation forms filled out by teachers, and the thank-you notes written by students. I've experienced the joy of children who participate in our programs. I've seen professional and personal growth in myself, and with other volunteers. Staff are very helpful to, and supportive of volunteers.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

Give it more money to work with. The limited finances of school systems and foundations have been especially difficult for the finances of the Center. With a better financial situation, the Center could hire another teacher-naturalist and hopefully raise salaries to a more appropriate level, given the skills required of the director and teacher-naturalists.

I became a Director of Connecticut Audubon because I was attracted to their mission of protecting birds and their habitat in Connecticut which is where I live. I also like the fact that their positions are science based not emotional appeals since conservation is a complex subject not well served by slogans. This is a pleasant contrast to the positions and activities of other environmental and conservation organizations that operate in Connecticut and one of the reasons I give it a high rating and work in its behalf.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

Our 6 year old Grand-daughter attended a summer program at the Glastonbury Audubon facility last summer and she was so excited. After the class she ran down the path in front of us to show us where the class had gone on their field trips during the day. She pointed out bird nests and a special kind of hut made out of tree branches. We gave her a pair of binoculars for Christmas and now she takes them with her when we go on walks together so that she can get a better look at the birds. The Audubon program really made her aware of the birds and the importance of conservation habits to help protect the birds.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

I participate in the education programs for regional schools for sessions in which the children study bird migration. The time spent is richly rewarded by the looks on the children's faces as they learn to understand the lessons birds teach us about the environment. I love seeing the change in a child's face when they "get it." To see children become life long birders is worth every moment. CT Audubon is such an important organization, focused solely on Connecticut's birds and environmental issues.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

I volunteered with Connecticut Audubon Society's CANE program in Fairfield and went through the training session and then teaching the children. What a great experience for me and the children! The training was great and I felt so good that I was able to help teach science. The children in kindergarten were mesmerized by the puppet show and I heard from friends they went home and told their parents all about hibernating animals. Connecticut Audubon Society does a great job and I would recommend getting involved.